This week, British Columbia and Alberta issued immigration invitations through their Provincial Nominee Programs to candidates preferring a qualification in professional experience, education, or employment factors.
In 1998, the Provincial Nominee Program was established in an effort to share the immigration benefits evenly across Canada. All provinces except Quebec and Nunavut have PNPs, but Quebec enjoys a special federal agreement which enables it to make its economic immigration policies.
Provincial Immigration Highlights (Nov 29 – Dec 6)
British Columbia
British Columbia held a draw on December 3 under its Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams, including the Express Entry BC (EEBC) categories.
- At least 9 candidates were invited based on their employment in high-demand sectors
- The minimum scores vary depending on the sector.
| Sectors targeted | Minimum score to be considered | Invitations issued |
| Childcare | 102 | <5 |
| Construction | 108 | <5 |
| Healthcare | 121 | 6 |
| Tech | 141 | <5 |
Alberta
The first draw happened on November 22. The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) held two draws under the Alberta Opportunity Stream. when 80 invitations went out to candidates with job offers in Alberta full-time. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum score of 40.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria is needed such as a valid work permit, Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5 or higher, at least 12 months of work experience, a job offer in Alberta’s healthcare sector (excluding occupations under the Dedicated Healthcare Pathways), and meeting the regulatory requirements for practicing in Alberta if their occupation was regulated.
The second draw in Alberta occurred on November 27 and included 447 candidates with full-time job offers and education completed in Alberta. The minimum draw score for this round of draws was 71.
Eligibility
Basic requirements included a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit, an expiry date of work permit on or after February 28, 2025, CLB 4 and above, at least six months of work experience in Alberta, and a confirmed job offer in an eligible occupation. The occupations excluded were those deemed ineligible under the Alberta Opportunity Stream, with the NOC broad categories “business, finance, and administration occupations” and “sales and service occupations” being the ones deemed eligible.
This draws further evidence of the province’s persistent endeavors to attract skilled talent toward their economic needs. These programs are, for all the candidates who are deemed eligible, a highly worthwhile route to permanent residence in Canada.
